If you know which phone brand you want, start here. Pick the brand, compare the models offered on contract, then check the monthly cost, term and plan inclusions across networks and retailers. The same phone can cost quite differently in total depending on the plan it is paired with.
This hub sits under Cellphone Contract Deals South Africa. To compare all contract types rather than by brand, go to Contract Deals.
Compare Phone Contract Deals
Brand is a useful starting point, but the contract is what you pay for every month. Use this table to match a brand route to your priorities.
| Brand route | Typical range on contract | Who it may suit | What to compare |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone | Current and previous-generation models | People in the Apple ecosystem | Storage version, term, total cost |
| Samsung | Flagship Galaxy S, foldables and Galaxy A mid-range | Wide budget range, Android users | Model tier vs monthly budget |
| Hisense | Entry-level and budget models | Lower monthly budgets | Plan inclusions, storage |
| TECNO | Budget and mid-range models | Value-focused buyers | Plan inclusions, availability by network |
Ranges and availability change as networks update stock, so confirm the current model list before applying.
Browse Deals by Phone Brand
iPhone
iPhone contracts are widely offered through networks and Apple resellers. Compare storage versions carefully, because they change the monthly payment. See iPhone Contract Deals.
Samsung
Samsung covers flagship, foldable and mid-range phones, which makes it easy to find a Galaxy model at different price points. See Samsung Contract Deals.
Hisense
Hisense phones tend to sit at the more affordable end, which can suit a first contract or a lower monthly budget. See Hisense Contract Deals.
TECNO
TECNO focuses on budget and mid-range Android phones. Check which networks currently carry the model you want. See TECNO Contract Deals.
Other brands
HONOR, OPPO, Xiaomi, vivo, realme, Huawei, Motorola, Nokia and Mobicel also appear on contract with some networks and retailers. Availability varies, so check current listings.
Popular Phone Models on Contract
Popular models change with each launch cycle. Rather than chasing a specific model, compare by series and tier:
- Flagships such as the latest iPhone or Samsung Galaxy S series usually carry the highest monthly payments and are often offered on 24 or 36 months.
- Previous-generation flagships can offer similar features at a lower monthly cost once a newer model launches.
- Mid-range models such as the Samsung Galaxy A series balance features and price.
- Entry-level phones suit basic use and lower budgets.
Telkom, for example, currently features iPhone and Samsung Galaxy models on its deals page. Other networks feature their own ranges.
Compare Deals by Network
The same phone can be offered by MTN, Vodacom, Telkom and Cell C on different plans. When comparing:
1. choose the same storage version on each network; 2. compare the monthly payment and the total cost over the term; 3. check the data, minutes and SMSes on the plan; 4. look for upfront, SIM or connection fees; 5. confirm coverage at your address.
A cheaper monthly payment on a longer term is not always the cheaper deal overall.
Double Phone Deals
Double deals put two phones, or a phone and a tablet, on one contract. Vodacom’s Double Deals, for example, include two identical phones, two different phones from the same brand, or a phone and tablet from the same brand.
Check whether the second device is financed, discounted or a genuine 2-for-1 promotion. It does not automatically mean the second phone is free.
How to Choose a Phone Contract
1. Set a monthly budget that includes likely out-of-bundle spending. 2. Pick the tier that matches how you use your phone, not the most expensive model. 3. Choose storage based on how many photos, videos and apps you keep. 4. Compare plans so the data and minutes match your usage. 5. Check the term and when you can upgrade. At Vodacom, upgrade eligibility starts at month 19 on a 24-month contract, but any unpaid device balance remains payable. 6. Confirm requirements. Networks usually run credit and affordability checks, and approval is not guaranteed.
For tablets, laptops and routers on contract, see Device Contract Deals.
Phone Contract FAQs
Which phone brand is best on contract?
It depends on your budget and needs. Compare models in your price range on monthly cost, plan inclusions and total cost rather than choosing on brand alone.
Is it cheaper to buy a phone cash or on contract?
It can go either way. Add up the monthly payments and fees over the term, then compare with the cash price plus a SIM-only plan.
Can I get the latest phone on contract when it launches?
Networks often offer new flagships on contract around launch, but stock and pricing vary. Check the network’s current listing.
Where can I learn about applying?
The Contract Deal Guides explain requirements, credit checks, upgrades and cancellations.